The Pacific Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) of Coronado will be hosting their third annual 5K Ruff Run on Saturday, March 9, as a celebration for animal lovers and their furry companions.
The proceeds from the event will simultaneously support community strays and relinquished animals, as all funds raised will be put toward medical, behavioral and other necessary channels of support in order to find the animals a forever home.
Whether accompanied by a furry companion or not, people of all ages are welcome to join in on the 5K run. For those who are looking to walk to the finish line, or have a smaller dog tagging along, there will also be a 2 mile route option.
Awards will be given out to the different age groups, and the overall winner will take home a two night stay at the dog-friendly Sheraton in Little Italy. In order to win, the runner must be accompanied by their dog.
New activities offered at this year’s event
Alongside the race this year, there will be new elements to the Ruff Run introduced.
“We are making it bigger and more exciting, and bringing in new aspects to the overall event,” said Jennifer Stein from PAWS of Coronado. “People should be excited about it because it’s a fun event you can do with other animal lovers, while supporting abandoned and stray animals in finding their forever home.”
Before the run, PAWS will be hosting a warm-up yoga session led by a certified instructor. The race will be timed, giving avid runners a bit of a competitive incentive this year.
There will also be a dog agility demonstration put on by PAWS, as well as a chance to team up with your furry friend and strengthen that bond by taking part in a tricks-for-treats dog training session.
Ruff Run will take place on March 9
The event will kick off at 8 a.m. and run until 10 a.m., beginning and concluding at Tidelands Park. PAWS asks that all participating animals are comfortable in group settings, be on non-retractable leashes and up to date on vaccines.
It costs $44 to sign up before Feb. 24 for both the 2 mile and 5k routes. The price then bumps up to $49 after the 24th. The purchase of a ticket comes with a t-shirt, Ruff Run dog bandana, a doggie finisher medal and dog swag bag.
To sign up, go to the Paws of Coronado website.
